Six Tips to Reduce the Chances of Accidents While Driving at Night
Driving at night is statistically more dangerous than driving during the day. Though fewer people are on the road, drivers cannot see other cars due to lack of light.
This blog post will explain why you should drive slower than usual to avoid these accidents due to speed or fatigue.
1. Turn Off Your Headlights and Use Only Your Parking Lights When Driving at Night
The glare from other headlights can be blinding, making it difficult to see while driving at night. The only way to combat this is with your headlights. But what should you do if they’re too bright?
You can turn them off!
All you need to do is use your parking lights instead of your high beams. Everything will be much easier for both yourself and others around you when you do this.
2. Keep a Safe Distance from the Car in Front of You to Avoid any Sudden Braking
Driving in the highway fast lane is an experience that can be both rewarding and dangerous. Drivers can successfully navigate this potential minefield by maintaining a safe distance from the car in front of them at all times. Not doing so could lead to sudden braking and rear-end collisions.
Here are some pointers to help you maintain a safe distance:
- Keep your eyes on the car ahead of you. Scan it constantly for any telltale signs (e.g., brake lights) about what they are doing.
- Slow down smoothly before any collision becomes inevitable if you notice they are tapping their brakes;
- When switching lanes, always signal first and then move out when the road is clear
3. Avoid any Distractions while Driving
After a recent study on driving and distractions, it’s clear that there is no such thing as “distracted driving.” It has been found that drivers are more likely to be distracted by the radio or phone while not doing anything else.
The only time you should be worried about distractions is while taking your eyes off the road for an extended period.
4. If Possible, Try Not to Drive at Night If You Are Prone to Drowsiness
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates 800 deaths and 50,000 non-fatal injuries in the US caused by drowsy drivers in 2017.
The best way to prevent drowsiness while driving at night is to avoid night driving. If unavoidable, stop every 2 hours or 100 miles to rest your eyes and take a break from the wheel.
Also, maintain a healthy diet before hitting the road and be mindful of how much caffeine you consume throughout.
5. Drive Slower than Usual to Avoid Accidents due to Speed or Fatigue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that speeding causes more than 26% of fatal car crashes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowsy driving is responsible for about 100,000 accidents annually in America alone.
6. Pull Over and Park on the Side of the Road If You Feel Sleepy
You may feel tired while on a long road trip or experience symptoms like difficulty concentrating, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, or confusion. Pull over onto the side of the road immediately if this happens.
Find somewhere safe to park where no one else will be able to hit you.
Remembering these six simple safety tips can save lives!
However, accidents can sometimes happen even if you are careful. And if you, unfortunately, meet with any such accident, an auto accident lawyer in Glendale can help you seek compensation.